Pre-natal and Peri-natal Pregnancy Counselling
Non-directive pregnancy support counselling
We provide non-directive pregnancy support counselling online or over the phone & funded by Medicare. You must have a GP referral letter. This service is provided by a trained mental health professional and is provided to a person who is currently pregnant or who has been pregnant in the preceding 12 months. This service can be used to address any pregnancy related issues including anxiety, stress, relationship issues or just to spend some time talking your thoughts through - we recognise that this is such a challenging time, with lots of changes and adjustments to every aspect of life! We can also support you in pregnancy loss, adoption and termination support. Our support services last at least 30 minutes duration, and with a GP referral letter and a Medicare card you are entitled to a maximum of 3 services for each pregnancy.There is an option, after the three sessions, you can pay to continue for $105 per session; so you can continue to be supported knowing you won’t need to be on a wait list or explain your story over again. You will be supported, without judgement. 
FAQs
Who can access this service?
Any person can access counselling sessions, however, to claim the Medicare rebate they need to either be pregnant, or have been pregnant in the preceding 12 months. This includes women who have experienced pregnancy/infant loss including termination.
How much does it cost?
For the first three sessions are free. The current Medicare rebate will cover the cost. However, after the first three sessions you will need to pay $105 per session.
How many sessions can a rebate be claimed?
You can claim a rebate for up to three sessions per pregnancy
What’s the difference between non-directive pregnancy support counselling and perinatal counselling?
The terms used are fairly inter-changeably, however non-directive pregnancy support counselling is the official name of the service you can claim a Medicare rebate for.
Who am I?
I am a mum of two toddlers myself, but when i am not doing that I am a trained mental health nurse, who take an interest in mums and families during pregnancy and after birth. I completed my Mental Heath Nurse training in the UK, and moved to Australia about 12 years ago. I have worked in a variety of different mental health settings with a variety of people including people with post natal depression, psychosis and anxiety. I ensure that i provide contemporary support, links to other services and a recovery based, non-judgmental attitude.
What does the GP need to write and include on the referral?
You need a GP referral to access this service if you want to claim the three, free sessions. The GP must write a referral letter and include;
Their provider number
Your name, DOB and other relevant demographic information
A request for non-directive pregnancy support counselling
Any relevant clinical information.
How many sessions can a rebate be claimed?
You can claim a rebate for up to three sessions per pregnancy.
For referrals, to access the service or more information
If you or someone you know needs immediate support with a mental health issue, or are having feelings of suicide please contact
24 Hour emergency Mental health support - Availability24 hours, 7 days a week
T: 1300 555 788
Beyond Blue - Anxiety, counselling and online resources
T: 1300 22 4636
W: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia
T: 1300 726 306
Mens Line
1800 Respect - 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence
T: 1800 737 732
